I'm sure this topic has been beat to death, but I've searched through the forum and haven't found an answer that would completely answer my questions. I have a 2013 F150 that came with the 4.2" (or 4.3") My Ford radio. I installed a Pioneer AVIC-8000NEX using the RR and FO2 and I would like to integrate the factory microphone if possible. My questions are, would I need to keep the factory 4.2" inch screen in order to use that mic or would Sync be integrated into the Pioneer unit? Also, would the factory mic work for other radio features, such as Carplay, or would I still need to install the aftermarket mic? If I can use the factory mic for everything, can I get a quick rundown on how to set everything up to make that happen?

I've had nothing but trouble since re-flashing my maestro to add Sync back. Basically, the mic that came with my Kenwood stereo was not great, to say the least. I loved the quality of the Ford built-in mic, but the other problems I have because of Sync don't make it worthwhile to keep. So...back to the original setup: Keep the steering wheel controls, ditch Sync and everything else.